Better streets & spaces, Central city, Facilities, Innovation, Sport & recreation  |  5h ago

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One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha was officially opened by Mayor Phil Mauger at a ceremony this morning.

The fully covered, multi-use arena is the largest construction project ever undertaken by Christchurch City Council.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger says, “Christchurch has a real sense of momentum about it, and the Te Kaha Project has played an important role in the long journey of the city’s rebuild.

“I’m delighted that this day has finally arrived and we get to see this amazing stadium finished. I’m so proud of Council staff and everyone who has contributed to delivering One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha – on time and within budget no less.

“I want to acknowledge the Crown for their contribution. Their support allowed us to get the project off the ground and deliver this world-class facility.”

The Crown contributed $230 million towards the $683 million project, as well as the land for the stadium site.

Construction started in 2022, with the Council’s Te Kaha Delivery team and lead contractor BESIX Watpac at the helm.

“Most of our contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers have come from Canterbury and the South Island. This project has supported local jobs, strengthened local firms, and injected confidence into our regional industries – it’s a real local success story,” says Mayor Mauger.

Around 4,000 people have worked on the project, delivering around 2.4 million work hours.

“This is a feat of engineering, design, and human dedication. Everyone involved has been a real credit to your companies,” says Mayor Mauger.

Alongside the stadium build, the Council has undertaken several projects to integrate the stadium into the surrounding neighbourhood and central city. 

“The Te Kaharoa precinct is well connected to our public transport network and accommodation providers. We’re also just a stone’s throw from some of the best hospitality and retail spots Christchurch has to offer,” says Mayor Mauger.

Te Kaha is a shortened version of Te Kaharoa (meaning ‘enduring strength’), which is the name that Ngāi Tūāhuriri gifted to the land bounded by Madras, Hereford, Barbadoes and Tuam streets.

“The contribution of Ngāi Tūāhuriri goes beyond the gifted name. From the exterior façade reflecting the natural Canterbury landscape, to the kowhaiwhai seating pattern, the artwork woven throughout the stadium and precinct reflects the unique character and history of our region and the Ngāi Tūāhuriri people,” says Mayor Mauger.

Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) produced a range of artworks to feature throughout One NZ Stadium and surrounding Te Kaharoa precinct.

The stadium has capacity for more than 37,000 people at concerts, the ability to transform into a cut-down event mode, and the flexibility to support a range of sporting and cultural events.

“This is a place for our people. A place where families will make memories, where young people will be inspired by their heroes, and where visitors will feel the pride, energy, and optimism that defines the Christchurch of today,” says Mayor Mauger.

Over the next month of the project, system checks, turf care and staff training will continue ahead of the first event, Super Rugby Pacific’s Super Round which will be held over Anzac Weekend (24 - 26 April).